Battle Zone: Spider Veins Vs. Varicose Veins

Do you have veins that are larger than life? Do you sometimes suffer from pain associated with your veins? As two different conditions that can be both irritating and can make you feel self-conscious, spider veins and varicose veins are both treatable by Dr. Heeringa at Northern Michigan Veins Specialists. However, as two separate conditions that often get mistaken for each other, it’s important to understand the distinctions between the two. Read on to learn more.

Spider Veins
Spider veins are typically blue, red, or purple veins that appear on the surface of the skin and are caused by hormones, sun exposure, and injury to the skin. Small in size and typically exhibiting a thread like pattern, spider veins can give off the appearance of tiny spider legs— hence, their name. Spider veins are formed as your capillaries begin to dilate due to any of the above things occurring. Although they can appear on the face, chest, back, and arms, spider veins are predominantly found on the legs. Spider veins typically affect small children and pregnant women, but they can affect different groups of people as well.

Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are large rope like veins that arise primarily on your legs and feet. Protruding from the skin, these rope like veins are caused by leaky valves. If left untreated, varicose veins can result in things like blood clots, pain, skin problems, and even skin ulcerations. Although virtually anyone can get varicose veins, genetics, medical conditions, obesity, and lack of movement can all contribute to the development of varicose veins.

If you suffer from either spider veins or varicose veins, they can cause you to suffer from pain, discomfort, and overall embarrassment. To learn more about how you can get your veins treated or to schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Heeringa at Northern Vein Specialists.